Novice

CROSS ICE HOCKEY

Sep. 13 - 2017

Using the same analytics technology used by the NHL, USA Hockey has proved the benefits of cross ice hockey for young players more than double benefits of full ice games. They used "good" U8 players in their analysis. In the video they do not even mention the proportionally smaller nets the goalies are using (brilliant, and done in every other net/field sport except hockey!).

6x more shots on goal/player

5x more passes received/player

2x more puck battles/player

2x more puck touches/player

2x more pass attempts/player

2x more shot attempts/player

2x more change of direction pivots

1.75 shots/minute vs 0.45 shots/minute playing full ice

Turns out the actual stats of the U8 game resemble those of an NHL game.

Simply put by Bob Mancini, Manager of USA Hockey Athlete Development Model, The numbers show what is good for a child.

The Okotoks Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) administers a minor hockey program for residents in the Municipal District of Foothills, including the Town of Okotoks. The current OMHA hockey program exists for players ages 5 years through 18 years, and consists of High Performance Level (AAA, AA), Community Level (A and B) and Shinny Hockey (After School Program). OMHA has a working partnership with 3 organizations to administer the AAA and AA levels of hockey - the OOAA (Okotoks Oilers Athletic Association), FMHA (Foothills Bisons Hockey Association) and the Foothills AAA Hockey Association.